35 Facts About Dolores Hart

Early Life and Family

Dolores Hart's journey from Hollywood starlet to Catholic nun is nothing short of fascinating. Let's dive into the early years that shaped her unique path.

1. Dolores Hart was born Dolores Hicks on October 20, 1938, in Chicago, Illinois. Her parents, Bert and Harriet Hicks, were teenage aspiring actors.

2. Her father, Bert, pursued his acting dreams in Hollywood, leaving behind a 3-year-old Dolores. This separation led her to be primarily raised by her grandparents in Chicago.

3. Dolores converted to Catholicism at the age of 10. The treats she received after communion, which non-Catholics didn't get, played a significant role in her conversion.

4. Her grandfather, a projectionist, introduced her to the world of movies. Young Dolores often accompanied him to the projector booth, sparking her interest in acting.

Hollywood Beginnings

Dolores Hart's early exposure to films set the stage for her Hollywood career. Here are some key moments from her rise to stardom.

5. Dolores made her film debut in the 1947 movie Forever Amber. Directed by Otto Preminger, this early experience laid the foundation for her future success.

6. After her parents' divorce, she moved to Los Angeles with her mother. This move allowed her to start auditioning for roles while still in high school.

7. Dolores attended Marymount College near Los Angeles. Her time there was crucial in breaking into the movie industry.

8. In 1956, she adopted the stage name "Dolores Hart". She was signed to play a supporting role as Elvis Presley's love interest in the 1957 film Loving You.

Career Highlights

Dolores Hart's Hollywood career was marked by several notable roles and achievements. Let's explore some of her most memorable moments.

9. She starred in Wild Is the Wind (1957) with Anthony Quinn. This role showcased her acting talents and helped her gain recognition.

10. Dolores appeared in King Creole (1958) alongside Elvis Presley. This film further solidified her status as a rising star.

11. Her performance in The Pleasure of His Company earned her a Tony Award nomination. She was nominated for Best Featured Actress.

12. Dolores starred in Where the Boys Are (1960). This film became a cultural touchstone for its portrayal of college students on spring break.

Romantic Life and Renunciation of Hollywood

Dolores Hart's personal life took a dramatic turn when she decided to leave Hollywood for a religious life. Here's what happened.

13. She was engaged to businessman Don Robinson. Their wedding was highly anticipated, with Oscar-winning costumer Edith Head designing her gown.

14. In 1963, at the age of 24, Dolores renounced her Hollywood career. She ended her engagement and joined the Abbey of Regina Laudis monastery in Connecticut.

15. Her decision was met with skepticism from friends and family. Even her aunt, Sister Dolores Marie, was initially doubtful.

Life as a Nun

Dolores Hart's life as a nun has been just as remarkable as her Hollywood career. Let's look at her contributions and experiences in the abbey.

16. She took the religious name Sister Judith but later changed it to Sister Dolores. This change was made for her final vows in 1970.

17. Mother Dolores Hart became a respected figure in the abbey. She chants in Latin eight times a day and has been instrumental in developing the abbey's arts program.

18. She was named prioress of the monastery in 2001. Mother Dolores held this position until 2015, overseeing the abbey's community and arts initiatives.

19. Mother Dolores has been a driving force behind the abbey's arts program. The abbey features an open-air theater where the nuns stage musicals every summer.

20. She has received support from notable figures like Paul Newman and Patricia Neal. Their contributions have helped sustain the abbey's arts program.

Health Advocacy and Public Appearances

Despite her secluded life, Mother Dolores Hart has remained active in public advocacy and has made notable appearances.

21. In 2006, she visited Hollywood to raise awareness for idiopathic peripheral neuropathy disorder. This neurological condition affects her and many others.

22. She testified at a Washington congressional hearing on the need for research into this disease. Her advocacy has been instrumental in raising awareness.

23. A documentary about her life, God Is the Bigger Elvis, was nominated for an Academy Award. The film was shown on HBO in April 2012.

24. Mother Dolores attended the 2012 Academy Awards for the first time since 1959. This appearance marked a significant moment in her life.

25. Her autobiography, The Ear of the Heart: An Actress' Journey From Hollywood to Holy Vows, was released in 2013. Co-authored with Richard DeNeut, the book details her remarkable journey.

Legacy and Impact

Mother Dolores Hart's legacy extends beyond her time in Hollywood. Her contributions to her faith, health advocacy, and the arts have left a lasting impact.

26. She has maintained connections with fans and former colleagues. Despite her secluded life, she continues to receive fan letters.

27. Her on-screen kiss with Elvis Presley remains a topic of interest. She humorously remarks that it's all there on the screen.

28. Mother Dolores met Pope John XXIII while filming Francis of Assisi in Rome. This encounter further solidified her vocation.

29. She is a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS). Her involvement reflects her continued connection to the film industry.

30. Mother Dolores has been afflicted with idiopathic peripheral neuropathy disorder. Her advocacy for research into this condition has raised awareness and support.

31. The abbey's open-air theater is a testament to her vision for community engagement through the arts. Every summer, the nuns stage musicals supported by local communities and notable figures.

32. Patricia Neal, a close friend, was buried at the abbey when she passed away in 2010. This gesture underscores the deep connection between Mother Dolores and her community.

33. In 2008, the Holy Trinity Apostolate sponsored a "Breakfast with Mother Dolores Hart" event. Her speech highlighted her spiritual journey and commitment to her faith.

34. Mother Dolores received a Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actress. This recognition highlights her talent as an actress.

35. Her film The Inspector earned her a Golden Globe nomination for Best Picture – Drama. This nomination underscores her contribution to the film industry.

Dolores Hart's Remarkable Journey

Dolores Hart's life is a tale of transformation. From a Hollywood starlet to a Catholic nun, her path is anything but ordinary. Born to aspiring actors, she found her way to the silver screen, starring alongside Elvis Presley and earning a Tony Award nomination. Yet, at the height of her career, she chose a different path, joining the Abbey of Regina Laudis in Connecticut.

Her contributions didn't stop with her vows. She became a driving force behind the abbey's arts program, even earning support from Paul Newman and Patricia Neal. Despite health challenges, she raised awareness for idiopathic peripheral neuropathy and continued to inspire through her autobiography and the documentary God Is the Bigger Elvis.

Dolores Hart's story is a testament to the power of faith, resilience, and dedication. Her legacy continues to inspire, bridging the worlds of Hollywood and spiritual devotion.